Xavi: ‘Tomorrow, We Play to Silence Critics…

Amidst the chaos that engulfed the press room at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, Xavi Hernández emerged, ready to face the barrage of questions from a throng of 60-70 accredited journalists—a scene as characteristic of Naples as hanging laundry or fried pizza. The upcoming match between Barcelona and Napoli carries an unexpected air of drama and suspense, given the parallels between the two clubs, both grappling with external pressures and navigating challenging times, both institutionally and athletically.

With the weight lifted following his announcement of departure at the end of the season, Xavi took the stage to assess the upcoming Champions League tie, acknowledging the significance of the moment. While there’s no urgency to vie for the title, there’s a sense of hope and economic necessity. Progressing to the quarter-finals would provide a substantial financial boost and grant the team greater flexibility.

Addressing the media, Xavi expressed that, while they don’t blame the press for poor results or subpar performances, there’s a sense of injustice for the falsehoods that circulate. As for facing a team with a new coach just hours before a crucial Champions League match, Xavi remarked, “Tomorrow, we’ll see the tactical setup, but it changes little for us. Calzona hasn’t played with three at the back, like Mazzarri, but it’s not the most important factor.”

In response to the atmosphere within the club after the announcement of his departure, Xavi stated firmly, “I think the decision to announce my departure was right. Our goal is to reach the quarter-finals. The club is very united; everyone has given their best.”

Approaching the first (and perhaps last) Champions League knockout tie under Xavi’s coaching tenure, he emphasized, “I’ll experience it the same way as if I hadn’t announced anything. I’m very motivated; nothing changes. We’ll prepare it in the best possible way. The pressure is the same, being at Barcelona.”

Speculating on the result is not an option for Barcelona, and certainly not for Xavi: “It depends on how the match unfolds. We will go to win, as always. Drawing is not a good result for Barcelona. We’ll go out to win; then, depending on the circumstances, we’ll see if it’s a good result or not. But we have to consider that we have a home game, and they will have to visit Montjuïc.”

Asked about being favorites, Xavi asserted, “The tie will be evenly matched, 50-50. Playing away first is not a disadvantage. There is no clear favorite; it has to be earned on the field.”

Having the return leg at home is undoubtedly an advantage, earned by the team in the group stage. “We have to prepare for the match knowing that there are 90 minutes at Montjuïc. But that doesn’t change our DNA. We have to defend well and have possession.”